Effects & Dangers Of Snorting Klonopin
The benzodiazepine Klonopin tablet can be crushed into a powder and snorted. This form of drug abuse can create life-threatening side effects and serious health dangers because it enters the bloodstream more quickly than when taken as prescribed.

The side effects of Klonopin abuse via insufflation can range in severity, leading to potentially dangerous side effects. This is because Klonopin is a Schedule IV controlled substance, which means it has the potential for psychological or physical dependence.
Klonopin (the brand name for clonazepam) is a benzodiazepine prescription drug used to help treat certain anxiety disorders such as panic disorder.
In addition to preventing panic attacks, this benzodiazepine drug, sometimes referred to as a “benzo,” can help treat those suffering from seizure disorders as well.
Effects Of Snorting Klonopin
Klonopin is a central nervous system depressant (CNS). While there are common side effects of the drug, those who participate in snorting Klonopin may notice these effects become more pronounced as drug use continues.
Any of the side effects of Klonopin may be heightened when the drug is snorted. This is because when snorted, Klonopin enters the bloodstream more quickly compared to when the benzodiazepine is ingested orally.
Common Side Effects
Side effects of snorting Klonopin include experiencing a calming effect or sedation. Other common side effects may include:
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- blurred vision
- unsteadiness
- frequent urination
- changes in sex drive
Although this creates feelings of euphoria and sedation, snorting Klonopin is ultimately a dangerous form of drug abuse.
Serious Side Effects
More serious side effects associated with snorting Klonopin consist of:
- mental health problems such as suicidal thoughts
- damage to the nasal passageways
- memory problems
- withdrawal symptoms
- increased risk of overdose
Dangers Of Snorting Klonopin
When Klonopin is snorted, many dangers may occur including an overdose. Additionally, long-term use of the drug can lead to dependence and addiction.
Damage To Nasal Passages
Those who snort Klonopin may suffer from:
- damage to the mucous membranes in the nasal passages
- the development of deviated septum
- frequent sinus infections
- constant runny nose
- nasal congestion
- loss of sense of smell
- recurring nosebleeds
- bacterial infections
- sore throat
Due to the harshness of the substance, snorting the drug can irritate the sinuses and lead to the decay of membranes and nasal cartilage.
Withdrawal Symptoms
While snorting Klonopin allows the drug to enter your bloodstream more quickly, it also exits quickly. This may create certain withdrawal symptoms.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Klonopin withdrawal symptoms may include:
- rapid heart rate
- fluctuations in blood pressure
- tremors
- nausea
- irritability
Klonopin Overdose
Those who take Klonopin in high doses can suffer from a benzodiazepine overdose. A person can experience an overdose if they take more of the drug than prescribed or snort it in high doses.
Signs of a benzodiazepine overdose can include:
- extreme confusion
- slowed breathing
- convulsions
- respiratory depression
- severe drowsiness
There may be a greater risk of overdose if a person combines Klonopin with other CNS depressants such as opioids. Additionally, a person should not combine other benzodiazepines such as alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), and lorazepam (Ativan) with Klonopin.
If a Klonopin overdose is suspected, contact 911 immediately. Inform medical professionals of any type of substance abuse a person has taken part in so paramedics can accurately treat the person suffering.
Klonopin Addiction Treatment
Prescription drug addiction treatment is available at Ohio Recovery Center. At our treatment center, you or your loved one can participate in inpatient treatment options such as:
- short-term detoxification or detox
- evidence-based behavioral therapy
- group therapy
- aftercare resources
Contact our treatment facility today to speak with one of our healthcare professionals. We can help assist you in finding the treatment program that’s right for you or your loved one.
- Clinical Psychopharmacology and Neuroscience https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4857865/
- Drug Enforcement Administration https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/benzo.pdf
- Food and Drug Administration https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2013/017533s053,020813s009lbl.pdf
- National Alliance on Mental Illness https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Clonazepam-(Klonopin)
- National Health Service https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/clonazepam/
- National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682279.html